Home » Curriculum » GCSE

GCSE Facts

The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) provide students with a high-quality secondary education foundation which offers progression to A level, UFP or IB.

42%
of students achieved at least one A*-A grades
44%
of Maths grades are A*-A
50%
of History grades are A*

Latest stats based on results in 2023

“GCSE and IGCSE offer students a variety of subjects with an academic focus on their English as well, so is excellent for international students as a starter in the UK education system.”

Vice Principal
Dr. Nicola Robinson

GCSE Overview

At The Worthgate School students can join Year 10 in both September to study our GCSE qualification. Classes are taught by subject specialists who are trained in how to teach students who have English as a second language. The qualification encourages students to explore their academic potential and discover where their interests lie. The qualification is internationally recognised and is normally obtained after two years study.

graduate hat

GCSE Qualifications in a wide range of subjects

Improved subject knowledge for university preparation programmes

English fluency and proficiency ready for university preparation programmes

Enhanced study skills required to excel in a chosen university preparation programme

Builds personal confidence and independence

Improved collaborative skills

Subject Choices and structure

English, Maths, Business, Biology, Chemistry, EPQ, Classics, IT/Study Skills, Physics and Sport are all compulsory subjects taken as part of a GCSE qualification. Students also must also take two more subjects, one from each block:

September Start Subjects

Block A
Block B
Art
French
Spanish
History
Geography

Questions About GCSE

These programmes let you study a range of subjects that give you a good base knowledge before you go on to study in more detail. GCSEs are the standard route to further study, and ultimately to university, in the UK. All the top universities recognise the programme, and they are even widely recognised internationally by some of the best institutions across the world.

GCSEs are ideal for all students aged 14 onwards, in some instances students aged 13+ are considered. The programme allows you to study a range of subjects, and gives you the right preparation for your further study.

The GCSE programme is one of the ways that you can further your study in the UK and eventually enter university and study for an undergraduate degree. After you have finished GCSE you will normally have two years of high school left.

GCSEs are widely recognised by employers across the world. High grades are a great way for you to show that you can perform consistently and meet high academic standards. You’ll also learn how to study, ready to go on to A level, IB or UFP

Students take a mixture of internal and external examinations. The main external exams take place in the summer term at the end of your GCSE course. To ensure students are well prepared we provide mock exams to aid in exam practice and preparation and to help teachers identify any areas needing improvement. English is also examined and awarded through IGCSE First Language English with an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination. Some subjects (such as the sciences) have an element of coursework which is written or practical work completed throughout the year and counts towards the overall grade.

GCSE results are published in June and August. Grades range from 9 (the highest possible grade, equivalent to A*) down to grade 1 and then finally to U (the lowest grade), although a ‘good pass’ is considered anything from 9 to 4.

Testimonials